Loft Conversions

Converting your empty loft space to make a usable room can add significant value to your home – both financially and in terms of liveable space for your family. Loft conversions are a great way to give you and your family more room, without the hassle of moving house.

However, do you have a suitable space for your loft conversion and what can you use it for? This article will look at what you should consider when deciding on whether to convert your loft.

Should You do a Loft Conversion?

Loft conversions are regularly cited as one of the top ways to add value to home and it could add up to 20% to the value of your property.
The first step is to work out whether your loft is a useable space. This may require professional assessment but the main things that will be considered are:

The internal height of the existing loft

Pitch and shape of existing roof

The footprint of the space

How Can You Use Your Converted Loft?

Once you’ve established that your existing loft can be converted into a usable space, think about how you’d like to use it. Do you need a home office? A play area for the kids? Maybe you want a guest bedroom with an en-suite?

Depending on what you decide to use the space for, there may be additional requirements that are beyond your DIY capabilities, such as plumbing or fitting new windows. Find good suppliers and reliable tradesmen to make the process much easier.

Aesthetically, you’ll want to find clever ways to make use of the sloped ceilings in your converted loft. Try to maximise the natural light by using Velux skylights or flat roof domes. Having a brighter space will make it a more liveable and usable room in your home.

Other Considerations

You may be wondering if you need planning permission for your loft conversion. If you’re not planning to extend or alter the roof space, you won’t need to apply for permission. However, there are some building regulations and conditions that you must follow when converting your loft. They will ensure:
Sufficient structural strength of the floor

The stability of the structure

Safe escape from fire

Safely designed stairs

Reasonable sound insulation

If you need some more space in your family home but you don’t want to go to the hassle of moving, then a loft conversion might be a good option for you. Once you have assessed the space in your existing loft, you will be able to create a usable additional room that will add value to your property.